You start going out with those men, it’ll ruin you. Oh, I’ve seen it. It gets in you like buffalo lice. You won’t care any more. -- J.D. McDonald
(Part 1, Chapter 2)

Importance: McDonald says this to Andrews during their first interaction together. McDonald warns Andrews against associating with hunters, as he feels it will change Andrews in some irreversible way. Ultimately, McDonald’s prediction comes true, in a way. After Andrews’ expedition with Miller, Andrews does not wish to return to his life in Boston, but rather wishes to continue exploring the frontier.

I came out here to see as much of the country as I can. I want to get to know it. It’s something that I have to do. -- William Andrews
(Part 1, Chapter 2)

Importance: This is the statement that Andrews gives when McDonald asks him why he has left college and come to Kansas. Andrews finds himself unable to articulate the reasons behind his desire...